Spirit Lake, north of Okoboji, is the largest natural lake in Iowa. It is well-known for great fishing and boating opportunities and charming waterfront locales, including Marble Beach. This 64-acre state recreation area has a large campground and a paved trail that runs the length of the park and is connected to miles of other beautiful hiking and biking trails.
Marble Beach offers easy access boat launches, and for those hoping to fish, drop your line for walleye, northern pike, muskellunge, largemouth and smallmouth bass, white bass, perch, bluegills, crappies, catfish, and bullheads. Experience anglers will be on cloud nine as there are more than 40 fish species in Spirit Lake!
Aside from Marble Beach, there are so many great things to do in Okoboji this summer. While there is a campground here, there’s really no better place to stay than The Oakwood Inn, a luxurious, adults-only resort and hotel in Okoboji. You can experience all the excellent outdoor recreation areas, but relax knowing you’ll have a beautiful guest room, warm hospitality, and homemade treats awaiting your return. Book your summer lodging today!
Summer Things to do in Okoboji: Marble Beach and More
The Iowa Great Lakes Region is one of the most beautiful places in the Midwest. These deep blue freshwater lakes offer many summer recreation options for a truly magical summer vacation. Often, the best things to do in Okoboji involve a swimsuit, a boat, and flip-flops, and Marble Beach is an excellent place to start your adventure out on the water.
Here are the best things to do in Okoboji this summer:
- Fishing on Spirit Lake: If you head to Marble Beach, you’ll find a beautiful shoreline to explore and many places to launch your kayaks, canoes, or fishing boats. Be ready to reel in those swimmers, as there are more than 40 species of fish in Spirit Lake.
- Okoboji Boat Rentals: Though there are plenty of lakes to choose from, the most popular is West Lake Okoboji. If you need to rent a boat during your stay, we suggest Okoboji Boat Works. They offer a wide range of boats, from pontoons to speedboats, all well-maintained and ready to take you on your next lake adventure.
- Live Concerts & Shows: During the summer, you’ll hear music on the air almost every night of the week. A few local hotspots for great dancing and drinks are nearby, including the Okoboji Store, the Captain’s Getaway, and Preservation Plaza at Arnolds Park Amusement Park for Live at the Lake.
- Okoboji Summer Theatre: This local theater group only offers shows for six weeks during the summer. It’s one of the longest-running summer theatre programs in the country and has been one of the top-rated things to do in Okoboji for the last 60 years.
- Arnolds Park Amusement Park: Connect with your inner child and explore the rides, fair food, and carnival games at this iconic landmark on West Lake Okoboji.
- Hit the Golf Courses: As a resort town, we know how our guests enjoy relaxing, and one of the best ways to do that is with a tee time. Brooks Golf is a favorite for a lovely day out on the links.
- Pearson Lakes Art Center: This local art center is a wonderful place to visit all year. It is a great place to see exhibits, take classes, and connect with Okoboji’s culture.
- Okoboji Classic Car Museum: Part museum, part showroom floor; this spot is a popular place to step back in time. It has an impressive collection of vintage and rare cars.
- Hiking & Biking the Dickinson County Trail System: This area is an outdoor lover’s dream; the collection of Dickinson County Trails weave and wind all over the Okoboji area. As a guest at our hotel in Okoboji, you’ll be steps away to start your pleasant walks through the woods and shorelines.
- Excellent Waterfront Dining: One of the best things to do in Okoboji this summer is to eat! You’ll have a fantastic selection of waterfront dining options. A few favorites not to miss are The Waterfront on East Lake Okoboji, Prime Boji, and Maxwell’s, both of which are West Lake Okoboji.
The Most Beautiful Hotel in Okoboji, IA
The Oakwood Inn in Okoboji, Iowa, is ideally situated for a summer getaway. It offers easy access to the best local beaches (including Marble Beach), golf courses, and charming shops. Its central location allows guests to explore Okoboji’s cultural richness, including museums, nature centers, and performing arts venues. The inn’s proximity to local vineyards and craft breweries further enhances its appeal for those seeking a relaxing vacation.
The guest rooms at The Oakwood Inn are designed to provide a luxurious and intimate experience. Each room has a king or queen bed, a private bathroom, and a cozy fireplace. Guests will appreciate the comfort of Comphy linens, high-speed internet, and large flat-screen TVs. For an added touch of romance, many rooms include two-person whirlpool tubs, making them perfect for couples looking to unwind and connect.
To elevate your stay, we offer a variety of add-on enhancements and packages. Guests can indulge in a romance package with a floral arrangement, a meat and cheese platter, a bottle of wine, and scented bath salts. The inn also offers seasonal packages and special deals, ensuring every stay is tailored to create memorable experiences. Whether celebrating a special occasion or seeking a serene retreat, our hotel in Okoboji provides all the amenities needed for a perfect summer escape. Book your room today!
